Thanks for taking a moment to check out this intro, but let’s be real: every second spent here could be spent diving into one of the incredible comic books that 2024 has to offer. I appreciate your attention, but in the spirit of Jack Kirby, let’s jump right into the best comics released this year!
For this mid-year roundup, I’ve curated a list of my 30 favorite completed graphic novels and trades from 2024. Notably absent are those I’ve been enjoying as single issues (like Ultimate Spider-Man, The Deviant, and I Heart Skullcrusher), which will likely appear in my year-end selections. I’ve also left out any collected editions (shoutout to Sex Criminals: The Cumplete Collection) and late 2023 releases (sorry, Mobilis and Worm: A Cuban American Odyssey!).
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Now, without further delay, let’s explore the best comics of 2024, ranked from my 30th favorite to my top choice!
Influenca
It’s easy to overvalue a comic based solely on its premise, but Influenca truly stands out. In Jade LFT Peter’s graphic novella from Silver Sprocket, we’re plunged into a world facing its seventh zombie apocalypse. The story centers on influencers—aptly dubbed Influenza—who take on the task of zombie hunting. This erotic, queer, and often humorous narrative provides a tense exploration of how we navigate a seemingly apocalyptic reality and the relationships that sustain us.
Immortal Thor Vol. 1: All Weather Turns to Storm
Al Ewing and Martin Coccolo’s Immortal Thor invites readers to ponder what the concept of immortality means for Thor. Ewing previously set the bar with Immortal Hulk, establishing “Immortal” as a realm for sophisticated superhero storytelling. In Immortal Thor, he shifts his approach, creating a blend of superhero drama, Asgardian myth, and meta-commentary on the comic book medium’s stagnation. This volume introduces a mysterious tension in Ewing’s narrative, as characters like Storm, Thor, Loki, and Jane Foster team up to confront an ancient god.
How to Baby
As a father of three boys, I thought I had parenting figured out, but Liana Finck captures the complexities of motherhood with incredible insight. In How to Baby, her engaging sketches and witty observations take readers through the entire baby experience, from conception to toddlerhood. Rather than being a how-to manual, Finck focuses on relatable experiences, evoking both laughter and nostalgia. Her work is a testament to the power of simple imagery, reflecting the chaos and beauty of motherhood.
The Enfield Gang Massacre
Chris Condon and Jacob Phillips’s That Texas Blood has been a standout since its debut in 2020. Their latest spinoff arc delves into the town’s murky past, recounting an infamous outlaw massacre. This ambitious narrative provides a deep dive into historical storytelling, showcasing Phillips’s vivid artistry and Condon’s meticulous attention to detail. The blend of past and present creates a compelling tapestry that immerses readers in a world rich with history.
Hobtown Mystery Stories: The Case of the Missing Men
Kris Bertin and Alexander Forbes’s adaptation of the Hobtown Mystery Stories brings a nostalgic charm reminiscent of classic middle-grade novels. The series follows a group of teens forming a detective club, unraveling a town-wide conspiracy. With elements that evoke both thrills and surrealism, this comic is captivating and difficult to put down.
Transformers Vol. 1: Robots in Disguise
Daniel Warren Johnson and Mike Spicer’s Transformers run showcases how to blend corporate storytelling with creative freedom. This Eisner-nominated series captures the essence of nostalgia while delivering fresh narratives. Johnson’s dynamic style and Spicer’s vibrant colors bring the characters to life in a way that honors the franchise while pushing boundaries. It’s a bold take that’s bound to resonate with fans old and new.
Bad Dreams in the Night
Webcomics sensation Adam Ellis presents Bad Dreams in the Night, a collection of short horror tales that deftly oscillate between humor and genuine unease. This work highlights Ellis’s range as he experiments with various styles while weaving unsettling narratives. It’s an impressive exploration of fears that feels both relatable and haunting.
Chainsaw Man Vol. 14
Tatsuki Fujimoto’s Chainsaw Man Vol. 14 takes a bold departure from the series’ signature action, opting for introspection instead. This volume is a testament to Fujimoto’s willingness to experiment, showcasing how a leading manga can subvert expectations while maintaining its unique voice. The lack of chainsaws does not diminish the tension and dark humor that fans love—it instead enriches the narrative’s complexity.
The Ribbon Queen
Garth Ennis returns with The Ribbon Queen, a collaboration with Jacen Burrows that dives deep into themes of horror and revenge. This gripping narrative explores societal issues such as policing and racism, offering a more nuanced approach than some of Ennis’s earlier works. With compelling characters and a richly woven plot, this comic invites readers to reflect on its darker themes.
Lunar New Year Love Story
Gene Luen Yang’s Lunar New Year Love Story, illustrated by LeUyen Pham, is a must-read this year. Yang’s talent for capturing teenage emotions shines, while Pham’s versatile artwork adds depth and vibrancy to the narrative. The combination of cultural elements and stunning visuals makes this graphic novel a standout, and it’s sure to be a favorite as the year progresses.
Don’t miss out on these fantastic comics! Whether you read them now or wait for the accolades at the end of the year, they’re all worth your time.